At the heart of the issue was Smith's procrastination in paying back the $600 he owed the linebacker. The longer it took him to pay up, the more frustrated Enemkpali became, and things reached a boiling point Tuesday after Smith put his finger in Enemkpali's face, a source said.

Enemkpali immediately was released by the Jets, and Rex Ryan's Bills claimed him off waivers Wednesday. Smith, will be sidelined 6-10 weeks.

While Smith was undergoing surgery, the Jets were in Detroit preparing for their preseason opener against the Lions. Ryan Fitzpatrick, who went into training camp as the team's No. 2 quarterback, was tabbed as the starter for last night's game and for the regular season.